Dabancheng Ancient Town

Dabancheng Ancient Town is a restored Silk Road waystation in the wind-blasted pass between Urumqi and Turpan, famous for its white salt lake, vast wind farm and the folk song 'Dabancheng de Guniang'. With our private guide, you'll explore the old town, meet local Uyghur and Han residents, and see how modern wind power now sweeps the same valley caravans once crossed.

What it is

Dabancheng sits in a narrow valley of the Tianshan Mountains, about 90 km southeast of Urumqi. For centuries it was a vital stop on the northern Silk Road, where merchants, monks and soldiers rested before braving the harsh wind that funnels through the pass. The town's name means 'pass city' in Mongolian, and its strategic location made it a garrison town under the Qing dynasty. Today, the restored ancient street features earthen walls, a small mosque and traditional courtyards that evoke its trading past.

The area is also known for the song 'Dabancheng de Guniang' (The Girl of Dabancheng), composed by Wang Luobin in 1939, which celebrates a legendary beauty. Nearby, the Dabancheng Wind Farm is one of China's largest, with hundreds of turbines spinning against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks. The salt lake, Chaiwopu Lake, adds a surreal white landscape. Our guides can arrange a visit to a local family for tea and explain the mix of cultures that still defines this frontier town.

Highlights

Ancient Town Street — Wander a 500-meter restored lane with earthen buildings, a small museum and shops selling dried fruit and handicrafts.
Dabancheng Wind Farm — See thousands of white turbines spinning across the valley, a striking contrast to the ancient Silk Road setting.
Chaiwopu Salt Lake — Walk on the crusty white salt flats that shimmer under the sun, a photographer's dream especially at sunset.
Wang Luobin Memorial — Learn about the 'King of Western Folk Songs' and hear the story behind the famous melody in a small exhibition hall.
Local Uyghur Culture — Visit a family home, taste freshly baked naan and sip milk tea while learning about daily life in this windy outpost.

Visitor entering Dabancheng Ancient Town with wind turbines in background

How to get there

From Urumqi, Dabancheng is a 1.5-hour drive via the G30 expressway; private transfers are the most comfortable option. Alternatively, take a high-speed train from Urumqi to Turpan and get off at Dabancheng Station (30 minutes), then a short taxi ride to the old town. We often combine it with a Turpan day trip, stopping here for lunch and a walk before continuing to the Flaming Mountains.

Tickets & practical info

Entry to the ancient town area is free; some individual attractions like the Wang Luobin Memorial charge ¥30–¥50. The wind farm and salt lake are best viewed from designated viewpoints, also free. Opening hours are roughly 9:00–18:00. Bring cash or use WeChat Pay/Alipay, as foreign cards are not widely accepted in small shops.

Best time to visit

Visit from May to October when the weather is mild and the salt lake is accessible. Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography and fewer tour groups. Avoid winter, when strong winds and freezing temperatures make walking uncomfortable, though the frozen lake has a stark beauty.

Tips from our guides

Wear sturdy shoes and bring a windbreaker—the pass lives up to its name, with gusts that can reach 40 km/h even on sunny days.
For the best photos of the wind farm, head to the viewpoint on the hill east of town around sunset when the turbines catch golden light.
Try the local specialty, 'Dabancheng big plate chicken', at one of the family-run restaurants; our guide can recommend a clean, reliable spot.
Respect local customs: ask before photographing people, especially in the mosque area, and dress modestly.
If you're continuing to Turpan, buy your train ticket in advance on the 12306 app or let us book it for you to avoid sold-out seats.

Intricately carved wooden door in Dabancheng Ancient Town

FAQ

Is Dabancheng worth visiting?

Yes, if you're interested in Silk Road history, wind farms or local culture. It's a convenient stop between Urumqi and Turpan, offering a glimpse of rural Xinjiang life.

How far is Dabancheng from Urumqi?

About 90 km, roughly 1.5 hours by car. High-speed trains take 30 minutes to Dabancheng Station, but you'll need a taxi to reach the old town.

Can I visit Dabancheng as a day trip?

Absolutely. Many travellers combine it with Turpan, leaving Urumqi in the morning and returning by evening. A private car makes the day seamless.

What is the best time to see the wind farm?

Late afternoon, when the sun is low and the turbines cast long shadows. The wind is usually stronger then, but the light is spectacular for photography.